2002-10-25 - The Highlight of Our Day

God often uses our dog Pierre to teach us profound theological insights.
Pierre is a little spoiled. He can have almost any treat he wants, and he
definitely has his favorites. And Pierre thoroughly enjoys a romp through
the park, or patrolling his backyard for the scent of a chipmunk, cat or
deer. But what he gets the most excited about - the highlight of his day
- is simply being with his family. He basks in our presence. Every time we
come home from work, it's party time!

We should feel the same way about our Lord. As much as we may enjoy our work,
ballgames, time with family and friends or anything else - the highlight
of our day should be our worship time, whether private or corporate.

The Psalmist said it best:

Psalm 16:11 (NASB) You will make known to me the path
of life; In Your presence is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are
pleasures forever.

Note the extravagant wording - not just "joy," But "fullness of joy." The
joy of surrendering to God and basking in His presence outshines any other
joy we can experience.

So how do we get to that point, where we experience that overflowing joy?
Therapists rightly tell us that we can act our way into feeling. If you have
ever fallen in love, remember what it is like? You spend every moment possible
with that person. You can't get enough of him / her. You want to learn
everything, even the most mundane little facts or experiences. You yearn
to please him / her.

We can pray for God's help, and then act our way into falling in love with
God:

By reading His word, prayerfully asking God to help us love His word and
learn fresh insights. Learning about HIs character and what He desires from
us.

By finding things to praise Him for, reminding ourselves of His provision
and His majesty

By fellowshipping in a local church - worshipping, serving and learning with
other believers - where we will hear more about our Lord and be afforded
more opportunities to worship Him.

By seeking to please Him with our behavior.

I challenge you to start falling in love (or more deeply in love) with God
this week.